AN indoor market, department store or entertainment venue have all been touted as options for the vacant former Debenhams building.

Debenhams closed in Colchester in May last year after first opening in 1987 as the flagship retailers for the shopping centre.

The shop in Culver Square Shopping Centre boasts three-storeys of space.

Colchester Council leader Paul Dundas argues it could be key in driving people into the town “if used effectively”.

The Gazette asked readers what they would like to see take its place and hundreds of you responded.

Nearly 800 people voted in our poll asking you what should open there.

The most popular answer, with 33 per cent of the vote, was a department store like John Lewis.

A food hall was second with 28 per cent of the vote followed by shops with 20 per cent of the vote.

An entertainment venue was fourth with 15 per cent of the vote.

Readers said they hoped to see something done with the site soon.

Caroline Leeds said: “Still sad walking past it, still miss the other staff who worked there. What ever it is going to be hopefully it will do well.”

Chris Adams added: “Whatever goes in there will need to take a hell of a lot of cash to cover the lease and running costs, it really needs an upmarket retailer to make it pay. “

Lots of our readers suggested they wanted to see a entertainment venue.

Eunice Moore said: “What about a entertainment centre for live shows where you can watch a group

“They could put a stage for the artists to perform then dance floor Then some tables on the ground floor so you can eat and drink whilst watching and would need a bar and kitchen area then with the upstairs there could be seating to watch.”

Mark Alefounder added: “An attraction entertainment centre to bring people into the town. Mini golf, ten pin bowling, bars, children’s play area that sort of thing.”

Chanelle Guy said: “Massive play centre, climbing walls, bowling, arcaded, sensory room but suitable for individuals with special needs also.”

Sam Crawford added: “A clip and climb, crazy golf, axe throwing, arcade, escape room, all under one roof! With a bar/café.

“Make it an entertainment venue as not many places to shop in town now as the internet has taken over. Many people don’t go to town for shopping they go for food and entertainment!”

Others suggested big name brands such as Zara and Bershka alongside a food hall.

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